The truth is, eating pineapple makes your body smell better.

(Dan Tri Newspaper) - Many people believe that eating pineapple helps improve the odor of both the genital area and the body. However, according to experts, food is only a small part of the complex "smell picture" of the human body.

Body odor is a natural biological phenomenon, reflecting metabolic and excretory processes in the human body.

According to Professor Johan Lundström of the Karolinska Institute (Sweden), who specializes in body odor research, the smell of human sweat depends on many different factors.

"Body odor is partly dependent on genes, the bacterial population on the body (due to factors such as hygiene and genetics), and the environment (humidity, temperature, air pressure). Besides that, what you eat also plays a significant role," he shared with the BBC .

Pineapple, like many other foods, can be one of the factors affecting body odor (Illustrative image: Pexels)

Foods that affect body odor

The body has two main types of sweat glands: eccrine and apocrine glands. Eccrine glands secrete sweat primarily to cool the body and do not produce a noticeable odor.

Apocrine glands, particularly in areas like the armpits and groin, are highly active, secreting a fluid rich in proteins and lipids—an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. When these bacteria break down these substances, they produce an odor—which can be mild or unpleasant depending on individual body chemistry and lifestyle habits.

Substances that the body excretes, including through sweat, urine, and vaginal secretions, can also be affected by what a person ingests.

"Most food that enters the body releases substances that dissolve into the bloodstream. These substances are then excreted in one way or another through body odor," Professor Johan Lundström explains.

Therefore, certain foods, such as strong-smelling spices, red meat, and curry, can cause strong and persistent body odor. Conversely, fresh foods, green vegetables, fruits, and herbs can help to soothe or neutralize body odor.

Does eating pineapple help improve vaginal odor as rumored?

According to some nutritionists and gynecologists, vaginal discharge can be affected by many factors, including hormones, personal hygiene, vaginal health, and diet.

Lifestyle, including daily habits and diet, can affect body odor, especially in the genital area, by altering the pH in the vagina or increasing the growth of beneficial bacteria.

For example, a diet high in refined sugar can alter the pH of the vaginal area, creating conditions for yeast growth and unpleasant odors. Meanwhile, eating plenty of fermented foods like yogurt or kimchi, which are rich in probiotics, can help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome.

Speaking to Well and Good , Dr. Amy Roskin, an obstetrician and gynecologist and Medical Director at Seven Starling, a center providing mental health care services for mothers, said that eating pineapple offers many health benefits.

"Pineapple has anti-inflammatory properties, promotes tissue healing, and strengthens the immune system. Pineapple is 85-89% water, and maintaining adequate hydration is also crucial, helping to promote natural vaginal lubrication. The more lubricated the vagina, the thinner the discharge, and therefore the less unpleasant odor," Dr. Roskin explained.

However, in reality, no studies have yet proven a direct link between eating pineapple and the ability to improve odor in this area.

Thanks to its high natural sugar content and distinctive aroma, pineapple can slightly affect the smell of urine or sweat, similar to asparagus or coffee. However, these effects are only temporary and depend on the amount consumed and the individual's metabolic rate.

Therefore, doctors suggest that people should eat pineapple because it is a healthy food, rather than to improve body odor.

Pineapple is a tropical fruit rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and especially the enzyme bromelain, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and aid digestion.

Additionally, the enzyme bromelain in pineapple has anti-inflammatory properties and helps improve blood circulation. This directly affects erectile function in men and enhances sexual arousal in women.

In addition, to improve vaginal odor, doctors also advise people to drink enough water every day; eat plenty of green vegetables, fresh fruits, and yogurt.

It is important to maintain proper personal hygiene; wear breathable, clean underwear, and avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and eating processed, heavily spiced foods.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/suc-khoe/su-that-an-dua-de-co-the-thom-hon-20250512180156661.htm